Andrew shavesbeard for his art

This month may be ‘Mo-vember’ but at Lisnagarvey Operatic Society, things seem to be going in reverse.

Rather than growing a moustache, Andrew Devonshire has been shaving his beard off, all in the name of theatre.

Andrew will stop at nothing to ensure the perfect pantomime performance.

He takes to Lisburn’s Island Hall stage early next month as the wise-cracking pantomime dame ‘Widow Bumble’ in Lisnagarvey Operatic Society’s production of Jack and the Beanstalk - and, eager not to cause any confusion, Andrew has sacrificed his luxuriant facial hair in order to convincingly portray the larger-than-life lady.

“I just didn’t think the beard would look quite right with my fabulous wigs, dresses and make-up – so it had to go,” said Andrew.

Director Simon Pyper, who returns to the Society hot on the heels of the sell-out summer youth show The Wizard of Oz, said: “Andrew’s sacrifice for his art is admirable.

“We didn’t envisage Widow Bumble being a bearded lady, so we’ve convinced him to part with his beloved beard.”

Join Widow Bumble, her hapless son Jack, the love of his life Sally and a cast of colourful characters as they dance and sing their way up the beanstalk to take on the big bad giant in the always popular treat from the award-winning local musical company.

Full of festive fun and frolics, this family favourite is sure to delight kids and adults alike.

Jack and the Beanstalk runs from December 6 until December 13, with performances at 7.30pm and Saturday matinees at 2.30pm at the Island Hall.

To book tickets, priced £10, contact the Box Office on 9250 9254 or log onto the website at www.islandartscentre,com.

Tickets for the annual festive treat are, as is always the case, selling fast, so book your tickets now to avoid disappointment.